The Best Way To Clean Stubborn Matcha Stains On Your Clothes

Matcha, an Asian tea that's beloved by people across the globe, is known for its iconic and trendy green color, but its distinct properties also make it especially problematic when it stains. Matcha's pigment comes from chlorophyll, which is infamous for creating tough stains, and it has high levels of antioxidants called tannins, which bond to fabrics and embed stains more deeply. So when matcha spills, it's best to address it quickly before it has the chance to dry and seep further into your clothes. 

Fortunately, it's usually possible to completely get a matcha stain out with the right care. All it takes is cold water, a cleaning solution (which can be homemade), and something to blot with, such as a toothbrush, microfiber cloth, bath towel, or paper towel.

Cold water is key to getting your matcha stain out (and if you're wondering whether the temperature of your water actually makes a difference in getting out stains, the answer is yes, it does). Whereas hot water can make the stain set into the garment, cold can help lift it out, especially before the stain has the chance to dry. Plus, matcha lattes typically contain milk, which has protein, and cold water can help prevent protein from binding to your garment. And when it comes to matcha stains, the old adage is true: Dab, don't scrub. Dabbing or blotting can help absorb the liquid, while scrubbing can actually make it more difficult to get out.

Dish soap or detergent, when diluted with cold water, can address your matcha stain, but they aren't your only options. Try baking soda mixed with water, lemon, or vinegar for a soft but effective solution instead of aggressive cleaners, such as bleach, which can lead to discoloration.

Baking soda is absorbent and helps deodorize, which is why baking soda is a useful tool for many kinds of stubborn stains. Its alkaline makeup can be mixed with something more acidic, like vinegar, to set off a foaming reaction and break up the stain. A downside, however, is that the vinegar smell can remain on the fabric, so you might have to give the garment a wash after removing the stain. But there's a workaround for that, too, with lemon juice. Lemon has many of the same properties as vinegar but offers a citrusy scent instead. You can also mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste, and use a microfiber cloth or toothbrush to gently apply the paste to your stain. However, this approach might take longer or need to be repeated a few times.

After you've applied your paste to the stain, let it sit before rinsing it out. Some experts recommend soaking your garment in the solution overnight, while others suggest that the stain might be gone in as little as 30 minutes, so it's good to monitor your item and make a judgment call on when to rinse it out, depending on when you notice the stain is gone. Then, it's time to enjoy your clean garment (and carefully sip your matcha).